Final stretch for Powderhall Stables project
Refurbishment of Victorian block in Edinburgh to deliver a microbusiness hub and event space nears completion
Collective Architecture has announced that the final phase of its Powderhall Stables project in Broughton, Edinburgh is now underway.
The redevelopment of the distinctive 1890s stable block to the north of the city centre was undertaken for the City of Edinburgh Council, and will deliver a mix of individual studios and co-working spaces aimed at microbusinesses.
The building will also feature two flexible function spaces, with kitchen facilities, suitable for hosting a wide variety of events.
The former stabling yard to the rear of the building will be turned into a new plaza, capable of hosting outdoors events such as street markets and art installations.
Collective Architecture’s designs for the facility, set to open early next year, draw on the character of the historic building, which will give the refurbished building a contemporary advantage.
Emma Fairhurst, lead conservation architect on the project, said: “We’re very excited to be restoring and regenerating the Powderhall Stables, and working with an ambitious client, to introduce a creative hub to Powderhall.
“The Stables is a beautiful building, full of character and interest, and everyone is looking forward to seeing it reinvigorated, full of new life and activity.”
Collective Architecture is supported by a design team including Currie & Brown, David Narro Associates, AECOM, and RSP Consulting Engineers.
The refurbishment of Powderhall Stables has been made possible by support from the Scottish Government’s Regeneration Capital Grant Fund, along with finance from Miller Homes’ Bonnington Micro Business Fund.
The design for Powderhall Stables forms part of the City of Edinburgh Councilled regeneration of the old Powderhall Waste Transfer Station area. The wider development will deliver more than 200 homes and an Early Learning and Childcare Centre, along with new green spaces and enhanced public realm.
Councillor Kate Campbell, the Housing, Homelessness,
and Fair Work Convener, said: “We’ve been talking about the potential of the stables block at Powderhall for a long time – it’s so good that work is now starting, and we’ll see it back in use as a cornerstone of the whole development.
“The community was very involved in shaping these plans and telling us what they needed. So, it’s fantastic that this amazing building will be available next year, supporting jobs by providing affordable work space for small businesses and local people, alongside creating a flexible space for the community to use.
Tom Arthur, the Scottish Government’s community wealth minister, said: “This is a great project which will restore the previously abandoned category B-listed former stable block, transform it into a modern work and events space, and provide the local community with new places to work, learn and socialise.”